Sunday, February 22, 2009

Is Malaysia amongst the World's Friendliest Countries?

This is based on the western expatriates' experience.China,India and United Arab Emirates scored low overall because cultural differences from the West made integration difficult. The United Arab Emirates was found to be the most difficult for expats; only 54% of those surveyed said they'd made friends with locals.However, in my experience, most of people that have resided in Malaysia would say that we are friendliest people. The friendship continue and they keep fond memories of us for our hospitality.

The HSBC Bank International Expat Explorer Survey 2008, was conducted by independent research companies. They surveyed 2,155 expats in 48 countries, spanning four continents between February and April 2008. Countries with less than 30 respondents were deemed statistically insignificant. The remaining 14 countries were ranked in four categories: ability to befriend locals, number that joined a community group, number that learned the language and percentage that bought property.

World's Friendliest Countries

Those in search of a fresh start might head to these welcoming spots.

The country that once welcomed the tired, poor, huddled masses is now asking for a little reciprocation. And Canada,Germany and Australia are heeding the call.

They top a list of the countries most welcoming to expats. There, relocators have a relatively easy time befriending locals, joining a local community group and learning the local language.

Canada is the most welcoming; almost 95% of respondents to HSBC Bank International's Expat Exploreer Survey, released today, said they have made friends with locals. In Germany, 92% were so lucky and in Australia 91% befriended those living there. The United Arab Emirates was found to be the most difficult for expats; only 54% of those surveyed said they'd made friends with locals.